Rach Tram lies at the northern tip of Phu Quoc Island, hidden beneath a vast canopy of pristine forest and almost completely separated from the lively rhythm of the island city. Located in Bai Thom Commune and surrounded by mountains, jungle and an unspoiled natural ecosystem, Rach Tram remains one of the rare places that still preserves the raw, authentic beauty of Phu Quoc.
Rach Tram River – the largest river on Phu Quoc Island
The Rach Tram River stretches approximately 25 km with three tributaries: one flowing from Bai Thom and two originating in the tropical rainforests of Phu Quoc National Park, all meeting at Bac Cuu junction. In some sections the river narrows as it weaves through dense forest, and in others it widens into a vast mirror-like surface reflecting the sky, trees and mountains.
Exploring Rach Tram by boat
To visit Rach Tram, travelers must take a boat from the river mouth, where the freshwater joins the sea at Rach Tram Hamlet. As the boat glides downstream, a rare and untouched landscape unfolds: deep emerald water winding between the trees, sunlight filtering through the canopy and dancing on the surface, and the distant echo of forest birds resonating through the quiet surroundings. The deeper you travel, the scenery becomes broader and more dramatic with towering rock cliffs rising from both sides like natural gateways guarding the upper river. During the dry season, the river shines with crystal-clear green hues; in the rainy season, the water turns reddish brown, creating a wild, powerful charm unique to this region.
A rich ecosystem on both riverbanks
Rach Tram is characterized by a striking “two-world” ecosystem: on one side lie melaleuca forests mixed with oil and star trees, while the opposite bank is dominated by mangroves—such as Avicennia, Rhizophora, Sonneratia and the distinctive red-fruited canarium. Higher upstream, the vegetation shifts into thorny palms, reeds, wildflowers, vines and dense jungle growth. Elder fishermen recall that over fifty years ago, crocodiles still lived in these waters—proof of how rich and wild the Rach Tram ecosystem once was.
Rach Tram fishing village – simplicity preserved through time
The fishing village of Rach Tram remains largely isolated from the outside world. In the past, it was accessible only by sea. Although roads have improved, the journey is still an adventure: in the rainy season, the dirt path turns into a muddy river; in the dry season, fine sand stretches through the forest like a path to a distant land. But thanks to this difficulty, Rach Tram still retains its rustic charm—small riverside houses, wooden boats resting in the shade, children playing along the sandy banks and locals quietly continuing their traditional fishing life.
Rach Tram to Rach Vem – where forest meets sea
From the river mouth, travelers can continue by boat to Rach Vem Beach—famous for its turquoise water and starfish colonies. The journey between the two areas is a magical transition: within minutes, the river’s reddish forest water gradually shifts into the jade-green clarity of the open sea.
What makes Rach Tram special to visitors?
Rach Tram is not for those seeking convenience or crowds. It is a sanctuary for travelers who love exploration, silence and nature in its purest form. The deep tranquility, endless shades of green and the untouched sounds of the forest make Rach Tram a true “emotional oasis”—a place where visitors can feel the heartbeat of Phu Quoc’s wilderness more clearly than anywhere else on the island.
